Mines, NREL combine capabilities in geothermal energy research

GOLDEN, Colo., Feb. 25, 2010—Colorado School of Mines and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have announced the joint appointment of Masami Nakagawa to conduct research projects related to geothermal heat pump technologies, including:

Developing data collection plans for the showcase that allow long-term performance monitoring and research that will enable improved designs of geothermal heat pump systems

Identifying options for data collection and analysis on flagship geothermal heat pump projects, with an emphasis on Colorado projects and projects funded under the ARRA solicitation

Evaluation and research using the data collected at the NREL showcase and the flagship projects.

Nakagawa, an associate professor in the Department of Mining Engineering at Mines, is also leading the creation of a Geothermal Academy, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. He earned his Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics at Cornell University.

The Mines-NREL partnership in geothermal energy research will also focus on:

Developing more cost effective designs

Supporting the education of scientists and engineers in renewable energy and energy efficiency

Working with stakeholders to adopt optimal clean energy solutions.

“We are extremely pleased to be working with NREL in a team effort which leverages the expertise from both institutions to advance the use of geothermal energy in the United States. Geothermal resources have remained relatively untapped and could play a significant role in helping the United States achieve energy independence,” said Mines Provost and Executive Vice President Steven Castillo.